Inter striker Lautaro Martínez scored a late brace to secure his side a 2-0 victory at Pisa, keeping the visitors very much engaged in the Serie A championship battle despite a less than convincing performance.
Led by Cristian Chivu, Inter now sit third in the standings with 27 points total, tied with runner-up Roma and only one point adrift of table-toppers Milan. Meanwhile, Pisa hold the 18th position with 10 points.
Inter traveled in Tuscany looking to get back on track after enduring a derby defeat by Milan last weekend, which was followed by a Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid. Nonetheless, they were made to battle all the way by promoted Pisa. The home team generated plenty of chances, but a clinical Inter broke the deadlock in the 69th minute mark when Argentine Martínez drilled a one-time shot into the roof of the net. The attacker then tapped in from close range with seven minutes remaining.
The team’s capacity to convert even with pressure was crucial in earning the victory.
Across in Spain, Real Sociedad staged a thrilling fightback from 2-0 down to level at home against Villarreal, only to succumb to a late strike five minutes into added time. Villarreal’s goals came from Ayoze Pérez shortly after the 30-minute mark and Alberto Moleiro in the 57th minute, but Carlos Soler quickly reduced the deficit and Ander Barrenetxea equalised three minutes from time. However, Moleiro had the final say late in stoppage time.
Later on Spanish match, Real Madrid travel to Girona requiring a victory to return to the summit ahead of Barcelona, who secured a 3-1 triumph over Alavés on the previous day.
Elara is a financial strategist with over a decade of experience in wealth management and entrepreneurship.
